Image Source: i.redd.it
How Much Does The Bar Weigh At Planet Fitness? Find Out!
A standard barbell at Planet Fitness weighs 35 pounds. This is crucial information for anyone looking to accurately track their lifts or build a consistent workout routine. Many gym-goers wonder about the specific weight of the equipment, especially when starting out or trying to gauge their progress.
Deciphering the Planet Fitness Barbell Weight
When you step into a Planet Fitness, you’ll encounter a variety of equipment, and the barbells are no exception. For those focused on free weight training, knowing the weight of the bar itself is fundamental. This allows for precise calculation of total lifted weight, which is essential for progressive overload and strength tracking. Let’s dive into the specifics of the Planet Fitness barbell weight and how it compares to other common gym standards.
The Standard Bar Weight at Planet Fitness
The Planet Fitness barbell weight for their standard barbells, often found in the free weight section for exercises like bench press and squats, is generally 35 pounds (approximately 15.9 kg). This is a common standard in many fitness facilities, making it easier for individuals to move between gyms and maintain a consistent understanding of their training loads.
It’s important to distinguish this from other types of barbells, as not all gym bars are created equal. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the right equipment for your specific fitness goals.
Olympic Bar Weight vs. Planet Fitness Bars
While Planet Fitness typically uses 35-pound bars, the term “Olympic bar weight” refers to a different standard. An Olympic barbell, designed for competitive weightlifting and powerlifting, weighs 45 pounds (approximately 20.4 kg). These bars are also longer and have thicker sleeves for accommodating Olympic weight plates.
- Standard Bar: 35 lbs (15.9 kg)
- Olympic Bar: 45 lbs (20.4 kg)
The distinction is significant. If you’re accustomed to training with Olympic barbells at other gyms, you’ll need to adjust your mental calculations when using the 35-pound bars at Planet Fitness. This is especially true for compound movements where every pound counts towards your total lift.
The Smith Machine Bar Weight
Another piece of equipment you’ll find at Planet Fitness is the Smith machine. The Smith machine bar is a bit different. While the concept is similar – a bar for lifting weights – it’s guided by rails, offering stability. The weight of the Smith machine bar itself can vary between manufacturers and even between different machines within the same gym. However, at Planet Fitness, the Smith machine bar is often engineered to have a lower starting weight, typically around 5 to 10 pounds.
This lighter starting weight is a deliberate design choice. The Smith machine provides built-in counterbalancing mechanisms. This means that as you lift the bar, the machine assists you by reducing the effective weight you need to move. This makes it more accessible for beginners or those focusing on isolation exercises without the need to account for a heavy barbell.
- Planet Fitness Smith Machine Bar: Approximately 5-10 lbs (2.3-4.5 kg)
This is a stark contrast to the 35-pound standard bar, highlighting the different purposes and user experiences of these pieces of equipment.
Fathoming Planet Fitness Equipment Weight
Beyond the barbells, it’s helpful to have a general grasp of other Planet Fitness equipment weight. This provides a more complete picture of the weightlifting capabilities and the overall offerings of the gym.
Bench Press Bar Weight
When discussing the Planet Fitness bench press bar, we are generally referring to the standard 35-pound barbell mentioned earlier. This is the bar you’ll load with weight plates to perform bench press exercises. Knowing this baseline weight is crucial for accurately tracking your bench press progress. If you are aiming to increase your bench press, you’ll be adding weight plates to this 35-pound bar.
Weightlifting Bar Weight in General
The weightlifting bar weight can differ significantly depending on the type of bar and its intended use.
- Standard Barbells: As we’ve established, these are typically 35 pounds. They are often used for general strength training and can be found in many commercial gyms.
- Olympic Barbells: Weighing 45 pounds, these are the standard for Olympic weightlifting and powerlifting. They are built to handle heavier loads and are made with more robust materials.
- Specialty Barbells: There are also specialty barbells, such as curl bars, trap bars, and safety squat bars, each with its own unique weight and design. These are less common at Planet Fitness but might be found in more specialized training facilities. For instance, a curl bar might weigh around 10-20 pounds.
Typical Gym Barbell Weight
A typical gym barbell weight can be a bit of a spectrum. While 35 pounds and 45 pounds are the most common, some gyms might have variations. However, for commercial gyms like Planet Fitness, adhering to these established standards is common practice for ease of use and program design for their members.
How Much Does a Planet Fitness Bar Lift?
This question is a bit of a trick. A Planet Fitness bar itself doesn’t “lift” anything. You are the one doing the lifting. The bar is the tool that you load with weight plates to increase the resistance. So, the amount a Planet Fitness bar “lifts” is entirely dependent on the amount of weight you add to it.
For example, if you are performing a bench press and load 20-pound plates on each side of the 35-pound bar, the total weight you are lifting is 35 lbs (bar) + 20 lbs (left plate) + 20 lbs (right plate) = 75 pounds.
Setting Up Your Lifts with Planet Fitness Bars
Knowing the weight of the bar is just the first step. To effectively use the Planet Fitness equipment, you need to know how to load and use it safely and efficiently.
Loading Weight Plates
Planet Fitness typically provides a range of weight plates, usually in increments of 2.5, 5, 10, 25, and 45 pounds. When loading the bar, remember to:
- Start with the bar: This is your baseline weight (35 lbs).
- Add weight plates: Place plates on the sleeves of the barbell, alternating sides to maintain balance. Always put the heavier plates on first, closest to the center of the bar.
- Secure with collars: Use collars to keep the weight plates from sliding off the bar during your lift. Planet Fitness usually has spring collars or clip collars available.
Calculating Your Total Lift Weight
This is where knowing the bar’s weight becomes essential.
-
Bench Press Example:
- Barbell: 35 lbs
- Weight Plates (each side): 2 x 25 lbs
- Total Weight: 35 lbs + (2 x 25 lbs) = 35 lbs + 50 lbs = 85 lbs
-
Squat Example:
- Barbell: 35 lbs
- Weight Plates (each side): 2 x 45 lbs
- Total Weight: 35 lbs + (2 x 45 lbs) = 35 lbs + 90 lbs = 125 lbs
Always double-check your loaded weight before attempting a lift, especially if you are pushing your limits.
Common Questions About Planet Fitness Bars
Let’s address some frequently asked questions to ensure you have all the information you need.
FAQ Section
Q1: Is the Planet Fitness bar a standard Olympic bar?
A1: No, the standard barbells at Planet Fitness are typically 35-pound bars, which are lighter than the 45-pound Olympic barbells used in competitive lifting.
Q2: Can I bring my own Olympic bar to Planet Fitness?
A2: Generally, Planet Fitness has its own equipment policies. It’s best to check with your specific Planet Fitness location before bringing in outside equipment. Most gyms prefer members to use their provided equipment.
Q3: How much does the Planet Fitness bench press bar weigh?
A3: The Planet Fitness bench press bar, which is their standard barbell, weighs 35 pounds.
Q4: What is the weight of the Smith machine bar at Planet Fitness?
A4: The Smith machine bar at Planet Fitness is significantly lighter than the standard barbells, usually weighing between 5 to 10 pounds, due to built-in counterbalancing.
Q5: What is the difference between a standard gym barbell weight and an Olympic barbell weight?
A5: A standard gym barbell typically weighs 35 pounds, while an Olympic barbell weighs 45 pounds. Olympic bars are also longer and have a different sleeve diameter.
Q6: How can I calculate the total weight I am lifting on a Planet Fitness barbell?
A6: To calculate your total lift weight, add the weight of the barbell (35 lbs) to the combined weight of all the plates you have loaded onto it.
Q7: Are all barbells at Planet Fitness 35 pounds?
A7: The standard barbells used for free-weight exercises are typically 35 pounds. However, specialty bars like curl bars or trap bars, if available, may have different weights. The Smith machine bar is also considerably lighter.
Q8: Why is the Planet Fitness bar lighter than an Olympic bar?
A8: The 35-pound bar is a common choice for commercial gyms like Planet Fitness. It can be more accessible for a wider range of members, including beginners. It’s a deliberate choice to cater to a broader fitness demographic.
Q9: Does Planet Fitness have Olympic barbells?
A9: While the standard barbells are 35 pounds, some Planet Fitness locations might have a few Olympic barbells, especially if they are part of their “Judgement Free Zone” or offer more advanced training options. However, this is not the norm for all locations. It’s always best to check with your local club.
Q10: Who is the Planet Fitness bar weight suitable for?
A10: The 35-pound Planet Fitness bar is suitable for a wide range of individuals, from beginners who are just starting their strength training journey to intermediate lifters who are using it as a base for heavier lifts. Advanced lifters will need to load significant weight onto these bars to challenge themselves.
Concluding Thoughts on Planet Fitness Barbells
Grasping the weight of the barbells at Planet Fitness is a simple yet vital piece of knowledge for any member aiming for effective and safe training. The standard 35-pound bar is a versatile tool, and once you factor in its weight, you can accurately plan your workouts and track your progress. Whether you’re performing your first bench press or adding significant weight for squats, knowing your starting point ensures you’re on the right path to achieving your fitness goals. Always remember to consult with gym staff if you have any uncertainties about the equipment or proper lifting techniques. Happy lifting!